MORE SHENANAGHINS OVER IRISH BEEF EXPORTS?

Ireland’s chief veterinary surgeon said yesterday that beef sold by Ireland to Russia is completely safe. His remarks followed an announcement last week that Russia intends to expand its partial ban on Irish beef to an additional five counties, allegedly because of an increase in cases of BSE ("Mad Cow" disease). If enlarged, the embargo would include eight counties and 40 percent of Ireland’s beef producers. Negotiations between Dublin and Moscow are currently underway. (Irish Times, Itar-Tass, January 9, 14)

Ukraine Arrests Senior Russian Black Sea Officer Linked to Criminal Gang.